Hiking Adventure at Raymondskill Falls
Raymondskill Falls, located in the picturesque Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Known as Pennsylvania's tallest waterfall, this scenic spot offers a short, yet rewarding hike with multiple viewing platforms.
Trail Overview
The trail, a short, scenic loop, passes by the main falls and provides various vantage points, including platforms at the top, middle, and base of the cascades. The hike is considered easy to moderate, with some stairs and short sections that may be slightly rugged.
Parking Information
Two parking lots are available for Raymondskill Falls, both shared with the nearby Hackers Falls trail. If you're coming from Route 209, try the first parking lot for space. If it's full, continue to the second (main) parking lot, which is typically larger. Parking can fill quickly on weekends and in peak seasons, so it's recommended to arrive early, especially on summer weekends, to secure a spot and enjoy the area with fewer people.
Detailed Directions
From Milford, PA: 1. Take US-209 North towards Dingmans Ferry. 2. Turn right onto Raymondskill Road (clearly signed for Raymondskill Falls). 3. Drive about 1 mile to the small parking area near the trailhead (on your left). 4. If this lot is full, continue a short distance up the road to the second, larger parking lot. 5. The trailhead is well-marked from both lots. Follow the signs to the falls. 6. The trail forms a short loop (less than ½ mile total walking), with stairs and boardwalks leading to various viewpoints. 7. After enjoying the falls, return to your car or, if time allows, consider hiking the nearby Hackers Falls trail (parking is shared).
Crowd Avoidance Tips
- Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid peak crowds.
- Arrive before 10 a.m. on weekends, especially in summer and fall.
- Be prepared for limited parking during busy times and have a backup plan if lots are full.
- Consider visiting in the off-season (late fall through early spring) when the area is less busy.
- Use both parking lots—if the first is full, check the second before giving up.
- Combine your visit with the nearby Hackers Falls or other local trails to maximize your experience, as parking is shared.
In Summary
The Raymondskill Falls loop is an accessible, rewarding hike near Milford, PA, with two parking lots conveniently located off Raymondskill Road. With its short length, multiple views of Pennsylvania’s tallest waterfall, and beginner-friendly nature, this trail is a must-see for nature lovers in the Delaware Water Gap area. Comfortable shoes with some grip are recommended for the hike.
- The trail at Raymondskill Falls, a scenic loop offering various vantage points, requires comfortable shoes with some grip for the hike.
- For outdoor-living enthusiasts, the Raymondskill Falls trail is a must-see, with maps available to guide hikers through the easy-to-moderate terrain.
- To ensure a spot at the trailhead, home-and-garden lovers are advised to arrive early, especially during summer weekends, as parking can fill quickly.
- After enjoying the hike at Raymondskill Falls, nature enthusiasts can consider exploring the nearby Hackers Falls trail, which shares parking facilities for an extended outdoor-living experience.
